Chile, the CIA and the Cold War: A Transatlantic Perspective

James Lockhart reinterprets Chile and southern South America's Cold War experience from a transatlantic perspective, highlighting Chileans' role as active internationalists and their reassessment of American and other foreign-directed intelligence, surveillance, and secret warfare operations.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 28 February 2021
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

James Lockhart delves into the intricate tapestry of Chile and southern South America's Cold War experience, offering a fresh perspective by examining it through the lens of transatlantic relations. In his compelling analysis, he asserts that Chileans have crafted their own unique history as fervent internationalists, actively engaging with the global community while also critically reevaluating American and other foreign-directed intelligence, surveillance, and secret warfare operations in the region.

Lockhart's study highlights the complex interplay between national, regional, and transatlantic forces that shaped the Cold War in Chile and South America. He explores how Chileans, influenced by their own experiences and political ideologies, navigated the treacherous waters of international diplomacy, seeking to balance their interests with those of their allies and adversaries. At the same time, they critically assessed the actions and motives of foreign powers, challenging the notion of American exceptionalism and questioning the extent to which foreign interference impacted their sovereignty and autonomy.

One of the key themes in Lockhart's work is the role of intelligence and surveillance in the Cold War. He argues that Chileans were not passive recipients of foreign intelligence but rather active participants in shaping their own destiny. They developed their own intelligence networks and recruited agents to gather information on their adversaries, often operating in the shadows to avoid detection. This approach allowed Chileans to gain a deeper understanding of the geopolitical dynamics in the region and to develop strategies to counterbalance the influence of foreign powers.

Lockhart also delves into the impact of the Cold War on Chilean society and culture. He explores how the conflict polarized the country, creating divisions between those who supported the government and those who opposed it. The war also had a profound impact on Chilean politics, leading to the emergence of new political parties and movements that sought to address the social and economic challenges posed by the conflict.

In conclusion, James Lockhart's book offers a valuable contribution to our understanding of the Cold War in Chile and southern South America. Through his transatlantic lens, he provides a fresh perspective on the complex web of relationships and conflicts that shaped the region during this pivotal period. His analysis highlights the resilience and creativity of Chileans in navigating the challenges of the Cold War, while also challenging the notion of American exceptionalism and highlighting the importance of local agency in shaping history.

Weight: 442g
Dimension: 154 x 233 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474481823